You’ve attended leadership training courses. Read the books. Watched the seminars. So why do you still feel like something’s missing?
If you’re a business leader in Southeastern Wisconsin, you might relate to the frustration of feeling stuck, despite investing in leadership training. It’s not that you didn’t learn something valuable, it’s that the learning doesn’t always stick. The new skills and ideas fade away, and you’re left feeling like you’re starting from scratch.
The challenge isn’t the training itself. It’s the process (or lack of one) for making that training sustainable over time. Let’s explore why traditional leadership development often doesn’t last, and what can make it more effective.
Why Leadership Training Sometimes Falls Short
While leadership training offers plenty of insight and inspiration, there’s often a disconnect when it comes to lasting change.
One-Time Training vs. Ongoing Development
Many leadership training programs are one-off events. You leave the seminar with a notebook full of insights, but without a clear plan for applying them in the real world. This leads to a gap between learning and real-life application, especially when the pressure of day-to-day responsibilities takes over.
Lack of Accountability
Leadership training provides knowledge, but it doesn’t always hold you accountable for taking action. Without a structured follow-up process in place, even the best ideas can slip through the cracks.
The Power of Peer-Based Learning
So, what does work for sustainable leadership development? It’s not just about learning more; it’s about having a structured process for applying those lessons and holding yourself accountable. That’s where peer advisory groups come in.
Peer Groups Provide Lasting Connections with Purpose
A networking group can help you build connections, but peer advisory groups do more. They create a disciplined process that not only fosters deep, meaningful connections but also generates actionable business solutions. In our experience, the key isn’t simply more training, it’s a structured, ongoing process that turns those connections into results.
A Safe Space for Vulnerability and Honest Feedback
Peer advisory groups are designed to encourage honesty, vulnerability, and accountability. When leaders come together in a confidential, supportive environment, they can open up about their real challenges and get input that’s both practical and constructive.
Consistent, Iterative Learning
Rather than a one-time event, peer groups offer continuous learning over time. With regular meetings, leaders receive ongoing feedback and fresh perspectives, which they can immediately apply to their business. This iterative approach helps develop deeper insights and stronger leadership skills.
Peer Advisory in Action
Consider this: You bring a real challenge from your business to your peer group. Maybe it’s about managing a team through tough changes or navigating a financial obstacle. In a traditional training session, you’d get a general idea of how to solve the problem. In a peer advisory group, you get specific, actionable advice from peers who have faced similar challenges. You then commit to a plan to take on that challenge. At the next meeting, your peers hold you accountable to your commitment
The real power comes from sharing solutions, supporting one another, and holding each other accountable. Peer groups don’t simply “instruct” you, they work with you to generate insights that are directly applicable to your business.
What to Look for in a Peer Leadership Model
Of course, not all peer advisory groups are created equal. If you’re looking for one that will truly help you grow as a leader, here’s what to look for:
Structure and Process
The most effective groups have a structured approach that ensures every meeting is focused on learning, problem-solving, and accountability. This is where the process becomes critical, without it, even the best connections won’t lead to lasting results.
Curation of Participants
The value of a peer advisory group comes from the people in the room. You need leaders who understand your challenges, and you want a diverse group that can bring fresh perspectives. That’s why we carefully curate our groups to ensure that each participant brings something valuable to the table.
Facilitation with Intent
Having an experienced facilitator is key. Our founder, Marty Griffin, brings decades of executive leadership experience to every group. He ensures that every conversation stays productive and that each member walks away with actionable steps to take. With Marty’s guidance, members are not only learning but also committing to meaningful change.
Accountability and Commitment
The power of a peer group comes from the commitment of its members. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about taking action and being held accountable for your growth. Marty’s leadership ensures that each group maintains a high standard of accountability, so members follow through on their commitments.
Leadership development doesn’t happen overnight. It requires continuous effort, accountability, and a process that encourages learning and growth over time.If you’re ready to join a peer group that’s built on trust, structure, and real-world accountability, we’d love to meet you.
